Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What is it?

The carpal tendon is a space in the wrist area down which nerves, tendons and blood vessels travel and supply the hand. It is made of the carpal bones of the wrist area and soft tissue. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome describes a condition when the nerves, tendons or blood vessels in this area become compressed usually due to swelling. This compression can cause pain, temperature changes as well as sensory changes such as pins and needles and numbness. Certain groups of people are at greater risk of getting this condition, such as those with a family history of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, pregnant women and people that have had recent injuries to their wrist or hand.

What we do?

We will undertake a comprehensive assessment of your symptoms to ensure we have an accurate diagnosis. The assessment process will include a variety of assessment techniques looking at your range of movement, strength, muscles and ligaments. We will also use special tests to confirm your diagnosis.

What are the benefits?

Your physiotherapist will aim to help reduce the symptoms you are feeling from your problem. Treatment will target tight muscles and tendons around the wrist area and aim to reduce the inflammation. We may also look at how you work or sit at your computer and attempt to improve these areas for you.

How can we help?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be caused by a number of factors. We will aim to address these factors using a number of treatment techniques listed below.

Massage

Joint mobilisation

Acupuncture

Taping and Splinting

Postural correction

Electrotherapy

Rehabilitation

Ergonomics

What should you do?

If you think you may have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome you may well benefit from the help a physiotherapist can provide. You can call us or email us to discuss your condition or to book in for an initial assessment session. If we think we can help you we will say so, if not we will refer you on to an elbow specialist for further assessment and possibly investigation. Occasionally, an injection can help the rehabilitation process and sometimes surgery is required.

To arrange an appointment or speak to a physiotherapist, call or email on: